The field of contenders for at-large Boston City Council seats is more diverse than ever this year. Can a new generation of talent -- that identifies with Obama’s message of collaboration and consensus -- have an impact in one of the few large Northern cities that has never had a black mayor?

Cool soba is traditionally served on a bamboo tray called a zaru that is set over a plate. In fact, the dish’s full name is zaru soba. Though cheap zarus made of plastic are common, bamboo ones can be lovely, and they make for an elegant, authentic presentation of the simple noodles.